Presenting to a web cam is a different experience from speaking to a roomful of people. "When using video conferencing, podcasts, and YouTube videos, presenters need to refine their skills," says Diane DiResta, a speech coach and author of Knockout Presentations. "The visual medium lends itself to the sound bite and very short stories." Here are nine tips for being a video conferencing hit:
- Practice makes perfect. No matter how well you know your material, you shouldn't simply walk into a room and begin to speak. "Practice with the technology an hour before your presentation, and rehearse your message points," DiResta says. "Don't wing it.
- Use small gestures. Elaborate gestures that wow a crowd in an auditorium can be overwhelming on a small video screen. "Actions are amplified on video conference," DiResta says. "Wild, sweeping movements can result in distorted, fuzzy images." Remember: a video conference is akin to an intimate, one-on-one talk.
- Appoint a moderator. During your presentation, you want to be the star. Appoint a moderator to facilitate the meeting, introduce you and other guests, and keep the presentation moving. DiResta points out that having a moderator or a designated person operate the technology frees you to focus on your message.
- Prepare questions. If you take questions from the audience, have a few prepared in advance to cover your key points, or in case the audience turns quiet. Even better: During the presentation itself, either you or your moderator should jot down some follow-up questions based on your actual comments.
- Dress for TV. Avoid distracting jewelry, shiny clothing, and clothing with large, bold patterns. If the video conference will take place late in the day, keep another shirt or blouse in your office so you feel and look fresh. In the up-close and personal video screen, perspiration stains and wrinkles are more noticeable than in an in-person presentation. Keep powder handy for shiny noses and bald spots.
- Be (or appear to be) comfortable. "Choose a comfortable chair, sit up straight and don't slump," says Nicole Wells, a speech instructor and an adjunct faculty member at New York University's Stern School of Business. Also make sure the chair doesn't squeak.
- Ditch the distractions. Before the video conference, turn off beepers and cell phones. Place a "Do Not Disturb" or "Taping In Progress—Do Not Enter" sign on the door.
- Watch the background. The camera sees all. "You want to make sure there is nothing distracting on the wall behind you," Wells says. The best backgrounds are plain or ones that have a visual which reinforces your key points.
- Picture your audience. Even though you can't see your audience, always keep in mind they are there. "I've known people who put a picture of businesspeople right behind the camera to help remind them about who they are speaking to," Wells says.
